1999 Ford Taurus Fuel Pump Relay Location: Your Essential Guide

The 1999 Ford Taurus fuel pump relay is located inside the Power Distribution Box, commonly called the under-hood fuse panel or fuse box. This black plastic box is situated near the battery on the driver's side rear section of the engine compartment.

Finding and accessing the fuel pump relay in a 1999 Ford Taurus is a common task when diagnosing fuel delivery issues. Understanding its precise location and function is crucial for effective troubleshooting. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions and essential background information to help you locate the relay safely and efficiently.

Understanding the Fuel Pump Relay’s Critical Role

Before focusing on its location, understanding what the fuel pump relay does and why its location matters is key. The fuel pump relay acts as an electrical switch controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), your car’s main computer.

  1. Function: When you turn the ignition key to the "Run" position, the PCM sends a brief signal to activate the fuel pump relay. This relay closes its internal contacts, allowing high electrical current from the battery to flow directly to the fuel pump. The pump runs for a few seconds to pressurize the fuel system. Once the engine starts, the PCM keeps the relay activated to maintain fuel pressure.
  2. Importance: The relay handles the significant electrical load required by the fuel pump. Using a relay instead of sending all that current through the ignition switch prevents damage to the switch wiring. A faulty relay (stuck open or closed) is a frequent cause of a Taurus not starting or stalling unexpectedly.
  3. Signs of Failure: Symptoms pointing to a possible bad fuel pump relay include:
    • Engine cranks but does not start.
    • No sound from the fuel pump when the ignition is turned to "Run" (listen near the fuel tank).
    • Intermittent stalling while driving.
    • Complete loss of power while driving.

Locating the Power Distribution Box (Fuse/Relay Box) Under the Hood

The main hub for fuses and relays in the engine compartment of your 1999 Taurus is the Power Distribution Box (PDB). Some call it the Battery Junction Box (BJB) or simply the under-hood fuse panel. This is where your fuel pump relay resides.

  1. Where to Look: Stand at the front of your Taurus and open the hood. Locate the battery on the driver's side of the engine compartment (left side if you're facing the windshield from the front of the car). Look immediately to the rear and slightly inboard (towards the center of the car) of the battery. You will see a rectangular, black plastic box with a lid – this is the Power Distribution Box.
  2. Identifying Features: This box is easily the largest electrical component grouping in the engine bay apart from the battery itself. It's typically mounted to the body panel or a bracket just behind the left (driver's side) headlight assembly.

Accessing the Relay: Removing the PDB Cover

To see the fuses and relays inside the Power Distribution Box, you need to remove its cover.

  1. Safety First: Before touching the Power Distribution Box or any electrical component under the hood, always disconnect the negative (-) terminal of your battery. Use the appropriate size wrench. This prevents accidental shorts and potential electrical shock.
  2. Removing the Cover: The PDB cover is secured by plastic clips. Examine the sides of the cover. You will typically find tabs or clips. Press down on these clips firmly while lifting the cover straight upwards. It should release without excessive force. Set the cover aside in a safe place where it won't fall or get damaged.

Identifying the Fuel Pump Relay Within the Box

With the cover off, you'll see an array of relays and fuses. These are often color-coded for different amperage ratings. The fuel pump relay is one of several standard black or grey cube-shaped relays.

  1. Relay Appearance: The relay is approximately 1 inch square, often black or gray, with four or five electrical prongs on the bottom. It plugs into a socket within the PDB.
  2. Finding the Specific Location:
    • Look for the Diagram: The underside of the Power Distribution Box lid is your most reliable resource. There should be a detailed diagram molded or printed on it. This diagram maps every fuse and relay position, listing their amperage ratings and functions.
    • Diagram Key: Carefully study this diagram. Look specifically for the term:
      • "Fuel Pump Relay"
      • "FP Relay"
      • "EEC Relay" (Fuel pump relay is often part of the 'Electronic Engine Control' circuit in Fords of this era).
    • Confirming the Spot: Match the diagram location to the actual positions of the relays inside the box. Labels might also be molded onto the PDB base next to each relay socket, but the lid diagram is usually clearer. Common positions are near the front or side of the box.
    • Typical Location (Consult Diagram!): While positions can vary slightly depending on the engine size (Vulcan V6 or Duratec V6) and trim level, the fuel pump relay in the 1999 Taurus is frequently located in one of the rows towards the front (radiator side) of the Power Distribution Box. Don't rely solely on memory – always check the diagram.

Replacing or Testing the Fuel Pump Relay

If you suspect the relay is faulty, you can test it or replace it. Accessing it is simple once you know its location.

  1. Removing the Relay: After positively identifying the fuel pump relay using the diagram, grasp it firmly. Do not wiggle it excessively from side to side. Pull it straight up out of its socket. It should release with moderate, even force.
  2. Testing Options:
    • Swap Test (Simplest): Find another relay in the PDB with the same number printed on its top and exactly the same internal terminal pattern (four pins in a specific arrangement). Common interchangeable relays might include the horn relay, A/C clutch relay, or blower motor relay. Swap the suspect fuel pump relay with this known-good relay. If the fuel pump now runs and the car starts (or the problem moves to the other component, like the horn not working), you've confirmed the original relay is faulty.
    • Basic Electrical Test: With the ignition in the "Run" position (engine off), have a helper listen near the fuel tank. You can also sometimes hear the relay click when the key is turned on. Listen for an audible "click" sound when turning the key on. Lack of a click doesn't always mean the relay itself is bad (could be no signal from PCM), but a click doesn't guarantee its contacts are good either. The swap test is more reliable for a DIY diagnosis.
    • Advanced Testing: Using a multimeter to test for coil resistance and switch continuity requires knowing the relay's pinout and specifications. The swap test is usually sufficient for most owners.
  3. Installing a New Relay: Purchase a relay with the exact same Ford part number (if visible) or compatible aftermarket part number (a common Ford relay type like a "RY-12" style). Align the relay's prongs correctly with the socket and push it firmly down until it seats completely. Don't force it; if it doesn't go in easily, the pins might be misaligned.

Important Considerations and Safety Reminders

  1. Consult Specific Documentation: Always use the diagram on your specific 1999 Taurus Power Distribution Box lid as the definitive guide. Fuse and relay layouts can change between model years and even engine types. Some later 1999 models might have slight variations.
  2. Relay Replacement: While readily available at auto parts stores, ensure you get the correct relay. Take the old one with you for matching. Generic numbers often work, but cross-reference with store catalogs.
  3. Electrical Precautions:
    • Disconnect Battery: Always disconnect the negative battery cable before working on fuses or relays to prevent shorts.
    • Avoid Sparks: Be careful not to let tools bridge terminals inside the PDB, which can cause sparks or damage components.
    • Check Fuses: The Power Distribution Box also contains large fuses (maxi-fuses) that protect the relay circuit. If the fuel pump isn't running, also check the main fuse related to the fuel pump or PCM (PCM POWER relay output fuse, typically a 20A or 30A maxi-fuse – check your lid diagram!).
  4. Not a Guaranteed Fix: While a faulty relay is common, a bad fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, wiring issue, or faulty inertia switch (safety shut-off located usually in the passenger footwell or trunk) can cause identical symptoms. After confirming the relay is functional, further diagnosis may be needed. If replacing the relay solves the immediate no-start but the problem quickly recurs, investigate potential underlying causes like wiring faults near the PDB or excessive fuel pump current draw.

What If the Fuel Pump Runs, But the Car Still Has Issues?

If you've located and tested the relay, confirmed it's good, and you can hear the fuel pump running for a few seconds when the key is turned on (but the car won't start), or if the car starts but then stalls, the problem lies elsewhere. Common culprits include:

  1. Inertia Switch: This safety device cuts fuel pump power in a collision. Check if it has tripped (button popped up). It's typically located on the firewall in the passenger footwell, near the kick panel, or sometimes in the trunk. Push the button down to reset it. Inspect its wiring too.
  2. Fuel Pump Itself: Even if running, it might not be producing adequate pressure. A fuel pressure test gauge connected to the test port on the fuel rail (under the hood) is necessary.
  3. Fuel Filter: A severely clogged fuel filter can starve the engine despite the pump running.
  4. Electrical Connections: Corroded, damaged, or loose wiring at the fuel pump (located in or near the gas tank) or along the wiring harness from the relay to the pump can cause intermittent power loss.

Conclusion: Finding Relief Knowing the Relay Location

Locating the 1999 Ford Taurus fuel pump relay is a fundamental step in diagnosing fuel delivery problems. By opening the hood, identifying the Power Distribution Box near the battery on the driver's side rear, carefully removing the cover, and consulting the diagram printed on its underside, you can pinpoint the relay labeled "Fuel Pump," "FP," or "EEC." Remembering to disconnect the battery, using the swap test method for checking its function, and installing an exact replacement are key steps. While often the cause, a faulty relay is not the only possibility for fuel-related no-start or stalling conditions. Knowing its location empowers you to confidently perform this initial diagnostic check and take a significant step towards getting your Taurus running smoothly again.

Back to blog